Objective:To explore the effectiveness and safety of Marshall vein anhydrous ethanol ablation combined with catheter radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation.Methods:A total of 120 patients with persistent atrial fibrillation who were admitted to Jingzhou Central Hospital from August 2021 to June 2022 were selected and divided into two groups according to whether they underwent Marshall vein anhydrous ethanol ablation.The control group underwent catheter radiofrequency ablation(n=60),while the experimental group underwent Marshall vein anhydrous ethanol ablation combined with catheter radiofrequency ablation(n=60).The success rate of mitral isthmus block,postoperative atrial fibrillation recurrence,and surgical complications were compared between the two groups.Results:The success rate of mitral isthmus block in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group(98.33%vs 68.33%,P<0.001).At 12 months postoperatively,the recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group(15.00%vs 36.67%,P<0.05).No severe complications occurred in both groups after surgery.Conclusion:Compared with catheter radiofrequency ablation alone,the Marshall vein anhydrous ethanol ablation combined with catheter radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation has better efficacy and lower long-term recurrence rate,which is worthy of clinical promotion and application.